The multinational exercise is dedicated to the C-27J “Spartan” tactical transport aircraft” Starting today, 31st May 2018, the European Spartan Exe 2018 (ES18) has begun, an international exercise aimed at the tactical training of C27J aircraft crews within the framework of the European Defence Agency (EDA). ES18 is organised and hosted by the Bulgarian Air Force (BuAF) and will take place from 31 May to 7 June at Sofia Air Base (Bulgaria).
The main purpose of the exercise is to test the interoperability of Command and Control functions, and of communication and IT systems in a multinational context, to develop the knowledge and use of the so-called ETTPs (European Tactical Techniques and Procedures) in the tactical air transport/airdrop sector and, last but not least, to increase the level of mutual understanding among European Armed Forces that use the C-27J “Spartan” aircraft. Another important objective of the exercise is research and training on maintenance procedures, in order to strengthen interoperability among C-27J users, thereby increasing efficiency in terms of human and financial resources.
The 46th Air Brigade is a Transport Unit of the Italian Air Force which reports to the Air Squad Command through the Support and Special Forces Command. With its fleet of C130J and C27J aircraft, it is engaged daily in the service of the country. Among the Unit's tasks is that of rescuing the population in the event of disasters or extraordinary necessity and urgency, in all weather and lighting conditions, to provide the requested aid which, often, proves decisive in saving human lives. A concrete example of this mission is represented by the emergency medical transport of people in imminent danger of life or biocontaminated.
